Hello Gallatin Valley community –
I am writing to address questions about the amount of proceeds donated to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank from our fifth annual event on Thanksgiving Day 2011. Although HFS ’11 raised $28,000 for our Food Bank people have asked quite simply, “Where did the rest of the money go?”. A good question. My event management team and I feel incredibly grateful to the financial donors and sponsors who contribute in-kind services necessary to host our event. These contributions cover a significant portion of the costs needed. However, there are still expenses to pay. The top three line items include the cost of event shirts, rental of heated tents and race timing services. Timing fees were avoided for the 800 people this year who chose to participate in the Untimed 5K Fun Run/Walk, but nearly 2,000 people participated in timed events which we also think is terrific! Please note that the HFS planning committee is entirely volunteer driven with no paid staff. I cannot thank my team enough for their time and effort to make Huffing For Stuffing happen every year. And I thank you – Gallatin Valley community – for supporting our event with such numbers that have never been seen before in Bozeman for an event of this kind. I feel humbled by your community spirit, grateful for your support, and very proud to live in Bozeman. If anyone would like to be involved with our event planning for next year please email huffingforstuffing@yahoo.com. Thank you.  - John Dudas, Event Director